Weather extremities require our HVAC systems to work overtime. But if your electric bills have been hitting the ceiling lately, then you can try these tips to reduce your home’s HVAC energy consumption:
- Primarily, you need to carry out routine HVAC maintenance by following a proactive program. You can avail of the services of a company for duct cleaning Melbourne who will ensure that your system is operating efficiently.
- HVAC systems usually have an optimum temperature and operating it within that parameter ensures energy efficiency. You can guarantee the same by chatting with your service technician and consulting the owner’s manual.
It is advisable to avoid frequent temperature fluctuations. Turning the AC way up once the mercury drops or way down once the temperature shoots up exerts greater pressure on the HVAC system thus adding to your energy bills.
- Air leakage in your home can meddle with the efficiency of your HVAC system. You should try and avoid air infiltration both during chilly winter months and the AC season.
You can do the same by keeping all windows shut, caulking the immobile parts of your doors and windows, sealing drywall gaps and opening stud cavities, sealing loose ductwork with mastic sealant or aluminum tape, and insulating recessed lighting.
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- Homeowners should inspect their insulation for spots from where cold or heated air might escape. Adding insulation to your home can reduce your electric bill by 15%. You can consult an insulation professional if you are unsure about the process.
- Air filters serve as the breeding ground for pet fur, pollen, dust, and dirt making it mandatory to check the filters regularly.
This is essential for the longevity of your HVAC system. Ideally, the air filters of your HVAC system should be changed every month during summer and once in two to three months during winter.
However, if you are suffering from asthma, allergies, or have multiple pets at home, then the air filters should be replaced every 20-45 days.
- The heating and cooling load of your home is significantly affected by window coverings. During the summer months, you can reduce temperatures by keeping the window coverings closed during the daytime.
Similarly, during winter, you can allow sunlight in by opening all south-facing windows of your house. An extra layer of insulation can be added between your house interior and the glass during nighttime to maintain the snug feel.
- If your ventilation system gets obstructed, then even the cleanest of filters won’t be able to fit the bill. You should keep draperies, furniture, rugs, and bookshelves away from the vents.
Dust accumulating near the vent supply should be routinely vacuumed to allow easy air passage through the ducts. You can clean the narrow slots using an old toothbrush and a soapy rug. Post cleaning, you should dry the vent slats to prevent standing water.
- Ceiling fans help regulate indoor temperatures by working during the summer and winter months. Fans induce a cooling effect on our skin and keep us comfortable even when the sun blasts full heat.
During cold days, you can switch the fan to a circular clockwise motion for pushing down hot air from the heater to the floor.
- Summer months are synonymous with backyard barbeques. However, you should avoid using your stovetop and oven when it’s already hot outside.
It is permissible to use a hot appliance once the temperature drops by a few degrees like during late evenings or early mornings. The same rule is applicable to your dryer which can transform even a cool room into a humid sauna.
Conclusion
Following the above-mentioned guidelines can bring massive energy savings to your HVAC systems in the long run.
